The Georgia Supreme Court followed the recommendation of the Special Master in a disciplinary case that involved client abandonment, failure to return an unearned fee, and false representations to the Bar. The only mitigating factor noted was a lack of prior disciplinary history. In aggravation, the attorney was involved in multiple violations, failed to follow the disciplinary procedural rules, failed to acknowledge the wrongness of her conduct, and had substantial experience in the practice of law.

Despite going down the Wrong Way, the attorney received “only” an 18 month suspension.

The recommended 18 month suspension included a condition that attorney receive a psychological analysis with an opinion that the attorney was competent to return to the practice of law prior to reinstatement.

While it is still expected that the Supreme Court would follow a Special Master’s recommendation, the Supreme Court has proven that it is no rubber stamp. The facts of this case could have supported a harsher discipline, but the Court provided leniency.